Dimming control system for an array of electrochromic devices

Abstract

Electrochromic device control systems and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a window system includes a plurality of transparent windows, a plurality of electrochromic devices, a plurality of control modules, and a main controller. Each transparent window has an electrochromic device operatively associated therewith. A control module is operatively coupled to each electrochromic device and is adapted to controllably adjust an electric field to activate and de-activate the electrochromic device. Finally, the main controller is operatively coupled to the plurality of control modules and adapted to simultaneously adjust the electric fields of the plurality of electrochromic devices to activate and de-activate the plurality of electrochromic devices in unison. In one particular embodiment, a window dimming control system in accordance with the present invention may advantageously be incorporated into an existing cabin services system of a passenger aircraft.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This patent application is related to U.S. Patent Application No. (undetermined) entitled “Low Vapor Pressure Solvent for Electrochromic Devices,” filed under Attorney Docket No. BING-1-1086 concurrently herewith on Oct. 27, 2004; to U.S. Patent Application No. (undetermined) entitled “Multi-Color Electrochromic Device,” filed under Attorney Docket No. BING-1-1085 concurrently herewith on Oct. 27, 2004; and to U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,780 entitled “Electrochromic Organic Polymer Syntheses and Devices Utilizing Electrochromic Organic Polymers”, Xu et al., issued Jun. 8, 2004; which applications are hereby incorporated by reference. PRIORITY CLAIM [0002] This non-provisional patent application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 552,453, filed on Mar. 12, 2004; from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 552,589, filed on Mar. 12, 2004; and from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 552,606, filed on Mar. 12, 2004, which provis...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] The present invention provides systems and methods for EC array control systems, including control systems for dimming or otherwise controlling windows for commercial passenger aircraft. In one embodiment, a window system includes a plurality of transparent windows, a plurality of electrochromic devices, a plurality of control modules, and a main controller. Each transparent window has an electrochromic device operatively associated therewith. A control module is operatively coupled to each electrochromic device and is adapted to contro...

Problems solved by technology

While pull down shades of aircraft windows in passenger cabins appear simple, the mechanisms for integrating them i...

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